David Brinkley

Date of Birth: July 10, 1920

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: June 11, 2003

Biography

David McClure Brinkley was an iconic American newscaster who had a profound impact on television journalism. Born in Wilmington, North Carolina, Brinkley began his career in journalism working for a local newspaper. He transitioned to radio before making his way into television, where he gained nationwide recognition for his work on NBC’s “The Huntley–Brinkley Report,” which he co-anchored with Chet Huntley from 1956 to 1970. Brinkley’s distinctive style, characterized by his dry wit and succinct reporting, resonated deeply with the American audience. After “The Huntley–Brinkley Report,” he continued his television career with ABC, where he anchored the news program “This Week with David Brinkley,” further cementing his place as a news legend. Throughout his career, Brinkley received numerous awards, including ten Emmy Awards and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. He retired in 1997, leaving behind a legacy of journalistic excellence and integrity.

5 Interesting Facts about David Brinkley

1. David Brinkley served in the United States Army during World War II, which interrupted his early journalism career.

2. He won ten Emmy Awards over the course of his career, reflecting his exceptional contributions to television journalism.

3. Brinkley was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1992, one of the highest civilian honors in the United States.

4. He authored several books, including “Washington Goes to War,” which provides an insightful look at the nation’s capital during World War II.

5. David Brinkley was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame in 1988, recognizing his significant impact on the industry.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from David Brinkley

1. “A successful person is one who can lay a firm foundation with the bricks others have thrown at him.”

2. “The one function that TV news performs very well is that when there is no news, we give it to you with the same emphasis as if there were.”

3. “The only way to do news on television is not to be terrified of it.”

4. “People have the illusion that all over the world, all the time, all kinds of fantastic things are happening. When in fact, over most of the world, most of the time, nothing is happening.”

5. “Washington, D.C., is a city filled with people who believe they are important.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, David Brinkley’s net worth was estimated to be approximately $10 million.

Children

David Brinkley had three children: Joel Brinkley, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist; Alan Brinkley, a historian and professor; and John Brinkley, a successful businessman.